We combed the web and came up with wreaths made from recycled cans, upcycled wool felted sweaters, wine corks, recycled paper, recycled vintage books and eco-friendly organic greens. Check out the eco-friendly wreath collection 2011>>

 

From Brazilian artist, Gueth Freitas, beautifully painted handbags made from recycled records. She paints on the black vinyl records with "nanquin" a Chinese ink ...her designs are bold and punchy! She paints enough of the surface to give is a strong graphic look, however, if examined closely your admirers will see the classic tracks of the record. If you would like to give this as a gift, Novica includes and "artisan card" which tells the story of the artist and the materials used...it is a nice touch. There are several designs and different sizes available at Novica.com. Earrings and pendant necklaces are also available from this artist using the same process of painting on recycled vinyl records. These items are playfully named "Samba Symphony" and "Samba Swing" and "Copacabana Melody" Click here for availability and prices from Novica.com

There are a lot of us who would like to make an impact on the world, in some way or another. We’d like to make a contribution, change things for the better, improve lives, leave behind something positive. When I was training to be a Jedi knight back in the 70s, there was technique I learned called The Art of the Small. With it, I learned to narrow my focus … allowing me to use The Force to change things at a microscopic level This tactic can be used today to tackle the many problems in the world. The trick is to start small. Help others, do little good things, and see what the impact of those things are. Never underestimate the power of putting a smile on someone’s face. That smile could change the person’s entire day, and they could go on to do something brilliant that in turn helps thousands of people. All because you did something small that put a smile on their face. In that vein, I bring you recycled rubber bands:

Recycled Rubber Band Notecards

Rubber bands seem to come "free" with everything. And they multiply like rabbits in the junk drawer. Especially if you happen to purchase produce and flowers at the market. CLick here for instructions to make these cheerful notecards>>

 

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Recycled Rubber Band Jewelry

Fantastic jewelry from recycled rubber bands created by an architect from NYC. View and purchase at M2's Etsy Shop

 

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Rubber Bands Created from Recycled Bicycle Tires

Made in Switzerland of recycled bicycle tubes. The once flat becomes useful again. $8.00 at Plasticashop